2017 is a ‘1’ Universal year (2+0+1+7=1). A ‘1’ year is the first year of a new nine-year cycle and it’s a very dynamic year. ‘1’ years insist that we discover, acknowledge and use the new awareness and potential that’s always present in a ‘1’ year. So, whatever your hopes, wishes and/or goals are, it’s imperative that you take advantage of the powerful stimulus 2017 is providing. ‘1’ years are also activist years, so whatever you align yourself with– this is a good year to promote it.

This year– courage and self-honesty will be your two greatest allies. There will be plenty of change (something that we, as a species, aren’t fond of). Rather than giving in to our natural inclination to get as far as we can from change or the need to do so, we’ll get better results if we put that ‘flight or fight’ energy into adapting to the concept and energy of change.

2017 will bring big changes, many fraught with turbulence and previously unthinkable occurrences and events. We must all remember that each of us is capable of doing potentially mysterious, empowering deeds and of displaying courage, integrity and heart so vital and vibrant to the continuation of all that we hold dear– and then, we must do them.

Your message this month is in the form of a quote or affirmation. It’s a mandate that will activate the Magician and warrior in you and spur you on to ‘show up’ and actively stand for what you believe in.

For all of us:

 “Patriotism at the expense of another nation is as wicked as racism at the expense of another race. Let us resolve to be patriots always, nationalists never.” William Sloane Coffin, Jr.

“To announce that there must be no criticism of the President, or that we are to  stand by the President, right or wrong, is not only unpatriotic and servile but is morally treasonable to the American public.” Theodore Roosevelt

“You can build walls all the way to the sky and I will find a way to fly above them. You can try to pin me down with a hundred thousand arms, but I will find a way to resist. And there are many of us out there, more than you think. People who refuse to stop believing. People who love in a world without walls, people who love into hate, into refusal, against hope, and without fear.” Lauren Oliver

THE EMPEROR (March 21 – April 20) “The well of Providence is deep. It’s the buckets we bring to it that are small.” Mary Webb

THE EMPRESS (April 21 – May 20) “This, to me, is the ultimately heroic trait of ordinary people; they say no to the tyrant and they calmly, bravely take the consequences of this resistance.” Philip K. Dick

THE LOVERS (May 21 – June 20) “I want to stand as close to the edge as I can without going over. Out on the edge you see all kinds of things you can’t see from the center.” Kurt Vonnegut

THE CHARIOT (June 21 – July 20) “The ultimate measure of a person is not where they stand in moments of comfort, but where they stand at times of challenge and controversy.” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

THE SUN (July 21 – August 22) “Destiny is no matter of chance. It is a matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved.” William Jennings Bryan

THE HERMIT (August 23 – September 22) “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, concerned citizens can change the world. Indeed it is the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead

JUSTICE (September 23 – October 22) “Hope is a state of mind independent of the state of the world. If your heart’s full of hope, you can be persistent when you can’t be optimistic.” William Sloane Coffin, Jr.

THE MAGICIAN (October 23 – November 21) “People are always blaming their circumstances for what they are. I don’t believe in circumstances. The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and if they don’t find them– they make them.”  George Bernard Shaw                                            

THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE (November 22 – December 21) “Maturity includes the recognition that no one is going to see anything in us that we don’t see in ourselves. Stop waiting for a producer. Produce yourself.”  Marianne Williamson

THE WORLD (December 22 – January 19) “Nothing is lost upon a person who is bent upon growth; nothing wasted on one who is always preparing for… life by keeping eyes, mind and heart open to nature, humanity, books, experience…. What they gather serves them at unexpected moments in unforeseen ways.” Hamilton Wright Mabie

THE STAR (January 20 – February 19) “Embrace fully your capacity to create, to think in unlimited ways, and to pursue everything that you have been wanting. Be flexible, open and willing to let the new come to you. This can be the most joyous, prosperous, and creative time of your life.” Sanaya Roman and Duane Packer

THE MOON (February 20 – March 20) “If one advances confidently in the direction of their dreams, and endeavors to live the life which they have imagined, they will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.” Henry David Thoreau

“The Sun” (The Gilded Tarot) card by Ciro Marchetti

It’s December– and it’s been quite a year hasn’t it? In only a few short weeks– we’ll all witness and participate in the end of this year and the beginning of a new year.

Endings and beginnings, opportunities and challenges always trigger periods of profound reflection and soul searching. Did the year work out the way you’d hoped or planned? Did you grow and progress in all the ways you’d foreseen on January 1^st of this year?

2016 has been a turbulent year, bringing about unforeseen, and in some cases, unthinkable changes; 2017 promises more of the same. We must all remember that each of us is capable of doing potentially mysterious, empowering deeds and of displaying courage, integrity and heart so vital and vibrant to the continuation of all that we hold dear.

As you take a look back at yourself and your 2016 journey, how will you take what you’ve experienced and learned and use it to help make the coming year, 2017, the best year ever for yourself, your community and your world?

Your message this month is in the form of a quote or affirmation. It’s a key that will help you use your experience of 2016 to reflect on your perspective of yourself, your goals, your commitment and your willingness to ‘show up’ and actively stand for what you believe in.

For all of us:

“I love you, my sister and brother, whoever you are– whether you worship in your church, kneel in your temple or pray in your mosque. You and I are all children of one faith, for the diverse paths of religion are fingers of the loving hand of one Supreme Being, a hand extended to all, offering completeness of spirit to all, eager to receive all.” Khalil Gibran

 and

“There are people put on this earth who make laws designed to break the spirits of others.

There are those put here who have their spirits broken by the people who make those laws.

Then there are those who are here to make the laws that break the people who break the spirits of others.

I am one of those people.” Steve Toltz

and

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

THE EMPEROR (March 21 – April 20) “The greater danger lies not in setting our aim too high and falling short; but in setting our aim too low, and achieving our mark.” Michelangelo

THE EMPRESS (April 21 – May 20) “I am only one; but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; I will not refuse to do something I can do.” Helen Keller

THE LOVERS (May 21 – June 20) “The ultimate measure of a person is not where they stand in moments of comfort, but where they stands at times of challenge and controversy” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

THE CHARIOT (June 21 – July 20)    “Diversity may be the hardest thing for a society to live with, and perhaps the most dangerous thing for a society to be without.” William Sloane Coffin, Jr.

THE SUN (July 21 – August 22) “Courage isn’t having the strength to go on– it is going on when you don’t have strength.” Napoléon Bonaparte

THE HERMIT (August 23 – September 22) “Most of our obstacles would melt away if, instead of cowering before them, we should make up our minds to walk boldly through them.” Orison Swett Marden

JUSTICE (September 23 – October 22 “Intolerance is the most socially acceptable form of egotism, for it permits us to assume superiority without personal boasting.” Sydney J. Harris

THE MAGICIAN (October 23 – November 21) “The secret of happiness is freedom; the secret of freedom is courage.” Carrie Jones

THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE (November 22 – December 21) “We can all choose daily to wallow in negativity or to reject negativity for a richer life.” Anonymous

THE WORLD (December 22 – January 19) “In any moment of decision, the best thing you can do is the right thing, the next best thing is the wrong thing, and the worst thing you can do is nothing.” Theodore Roosevelt

THE STAR (January 20 – February 19) “Don’t be afraid of your fears. They’re not there to scare you. They’re there to let you know that something is worth it.” C. JoyBell C.

THE MOON (February 20 – March 20) “Hope is a state of mind independent of the state of the world. If your heart’s full of hope, you can be persistent when you can’t be optimistic.” William Sloane Coffin, Jr.

We stand on the precipice of tremendous change. Your life and world are a reflection of what you believe and put your energy into. Choose wisely. I don’t need to say more.

I’m repeating two of last month’s quotes– they speak loudly to and about us:

“Faced with the choice between changing one’s mind and proving that there is no need to do so, almost everyone gets busy on the proof.” John Kenneth Galbraith

“The dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present. The occasion is piled high with difficulty, and we must rise with the occasion. As our case is new, so we must think anew, and act anew. We must disenthrall ourselves, and then we shall save our country.” Abraham Lincoln – December 1, 1862 in a Message to Congress

THE EMPEROR (March 21 – April 20)  Focus on your goals this month– it’s important that your energies are properly directed. Participating in structured activities particularly in those that help you realign and redirect your excess energy in a beneficial manner. As the year draws to a close, you’ll notice that the obstacles you’ve recently encountered have begun to dissipate.

THE EMPRESS (April 21 – May 20) It’s OK to let yourself relax and let the kid in you express that natural, playful part of yourself. You’ll have more energy to complete your tasks if you temper your serious side with a little frivolity. Do something good just for yourself– it’ll encourage you to trust that everything is going to work out well.

THE LOVERS (May 21 – June 20) These next few weeks will be interesting for you.  Circumstances beyond your control are about to hand those controls back to you. Your whole life is on the verge of changing, so be honest with yourself and stay true to your commitments as you assume command of your life.

THE CHARIOT (June 21 – July 20) Get ready for an adventure because it’s time to challenge yourself and take on something new. Spontaneity, not meticulous planning is the key to your success here. Visit a new city or country; attend a different kind of play or concert; go hiking in the country if you’re a city dweller or go and explore the big city if you’re a “country mouse.” Your new perceptions will give you the perspective you’ll need for the opportunities coming your way in the next few months.

THE SUN (July 21 – August 22) There’s a lot of power at your command right now, so be careful not to let your ego and integrity become questionable issues. Something great is on the horizon and your in-born ability to lead others is very apparent at this time. Now is a great time for you to read, memorize and follow this advice, “Unless it is supported by a practical plan, no creative, mundane or spiritual concept can come to successful fruition.”

THE HERMIT (August 23 – September 22) You can’t wait for inspiration to spark your creativity at this time. You’ll have to roll up your sleeves and do some of the less exciting groundwork.  The hard work will be forgotten when you behold the bountiful results of your efforts.

JUSTICE (September 23 – October 22 You can see the negative ones you’ve picked up, too– oops!  Be mindful of your thoughts and actions because you’re very impressionable right now and subconsciously aware of a lot more than you think.  It’s time to sort through your list of friends and spend more of your energy with those on the same wavelength as you.

THE MAGICIAN (October 23 – November 21) You’re very strong-willed and sometimes that’s a good thing; at other times, not so much. If you find that you feel that you have to ‘assert’ your rights about something, you may be trying too hard. Ask yourself who needs to be convinced that you’re in charge– you or them. Just trust yourself to get out there and keep marching– others will love your confident strut and fall into formation behind you.

THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE (November 22 – December 21) Are you experiencing frustration? “What do I have to be frustrated about?” you may ask. A lot, actually, especially the ‘little things.’ Please remember, you’re on a new learning curve– although the language and customs of your ‘old world’ are still valid, you must become fluent and comfortable with the language and customs of what is rapidly becoming a ‘new world.’ Be patient and kind to yourself as you become comfortable with the discomfort of change. As once difficult issues from the past re-surface, you’ll surprise yourself with how easily you resolve them.

THE WORLD (December 22 – January 19) Despite, your protestations, you do love baubles, bangles and shiny things. To adorn yourself in a style befitting your inner radiance and grace the world with your presence is your current mission. And if anyone asks, please tell them, “Well yes, it is about me.”

THE STAR (January 20 – February 19)  Please accept that you already have the items on your list of personal party supplies for the year-end festivities– a crown, a throne, a scepter and adoringly generous subjects. You’re a stable factor in many lives, so please encourage and accept the acknowledgement that’s due you. By so doing, you’ll be setting the dynamic, rewarding tone for next year.

THE MOON (February 20 – March 20) Though you’re in a hurry right now, please don’t give into the temptation of only dealing with surface things and ignoring the details. As difficult as it may be, you’re better off if you consciously note the disadvantages of indulging this tendency whenever it rears it’s head. Use that fiery energy of yours to “burn off the dross” and bring out a deeper, richer level of your hidden values.

We are living in interesting times. Too often I hear or read that society is deteriorating, that our structure is crumbling. In many ways that’s what is happening. However, that isn’t all that’s happening– in even greater ways, we are more alive, more powerful and more able to create our lives and our world any way we want it. It all depends on your outlook and your expectations. If you expect the worst, you’ll not be disappointed. If you expect the best and prepare for it, you won’t be disappointed either. Both types of expectation require the same amount of energy. Your life and world are a reflection of what you believe and put your energy into. One of Richard Bach’s quotes keeps coming to mind lately– “You are never given a wish without also being given the power to make it come true. You may have to work for it, however.” I find that that last sentence of the quote is the key to all successful undertakings.

Here are a couple of other quotes that have come to mind lately:

“The dogmas of the quiet past, are inadequate to the stormy present. The occasion is piled high with difficulty, and we must rise with the occasion. As our case is new, so we must think anew, and act anew. We must disenthrall ourselves, and then we shall save our country.” Abraham Lincoln – December 1, 1862 in a Message to Congress

“Faced with the choice between changing one’s mind and proving that there is no need to do so, almost everyone gets busy on the proof.” John Kenneth Galbraith

THE EMPEROR (March 21 – April 20) It’s time to stop and reflect. Reexamine your goals and your efforts to bring them to fruition. Figure out what’s worked and what hasn’t so far and where you’ve been honest (and dishonest) with yourself.  What you’ll discover will enable you to powerfully focus your energy and achieve the success that is your natural birthright.

THE EMPRESS (April 21 – May 20) It’s time to put your energy into making your dreams come true. Ignore the advice of fearful doubters who insist on telling you that what you dream of doing or becoming is impossible. Keep on keepin’ on. Someone from your past will help you put everything in perspective and give you much needed clarity.

THE LOVERS (May 21 – June 20) It’s time– there will never be a better time than now to take the necessary actions to support your dreams coming true. Yes, there is still hard work ahead, but long-term success is assured as long as you move forward with focus and courage. Remember to acknowledge gratitude to those who are assisting you.

THE CHARIOT (June 21 – July 20) Too much drama and intensity is rarely a good thing. Please give yourself a much needed break and make your next ‘act’ a comedy or musical. In other words– lighten up and be more gentle with yourself– you deserve it.

 THE SUN (July 21 – August 22) What’s on your wish list?  Make sure it has all of the things you want on it, then make space in your life to fully receive your heart’s desires. By year’s end, you’ll be able to check off all of the wishes that have come true.

THE HERMIT (August 23 – September 22) You’re almost at the ‘finish line,’ so ‘keep your eyes on the prize’ and focus your energy for that final bit of effort that will make you a winner. With each step you take toward the realization of your goal, thank yourself and Divine Light for the transformative journey you’re on.

JUSTICE (September 23 – October 22) Ain’t love grand! Well, love may not be in the air, but “strong attraction” certainly is! Enjoy it and give yourself plenty of time to let the relationship develop and deepen before you make any important decisions.

THE MAGICIAN (October 23 – November 21) This is a powerful and creative time for you. Be willing to trust yourself as you experiment with the resources at hand and you’ll discover a side of yourself that you’ve always known was there. You’ll love this new view of yourself and so will the rest of your ‘tribe.’

THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE (November 22 – December 21) You’re used to an audience but this part of your life’s journey needs to be played to you and for you alone. Introspection is the key to unlocking the mysteries surrounding your life’s purpose.  Go within, listen, feel and keep a journal. What you’ll learn about yourself is priceless.

THE WORLD (December 22 – January 19) The great elder, Black Elk said, “Courage is fear that has said its prayers.”  Heed that message and make the most positive use of the energy available to you. Then take the appropriate actions and you’ll always have something wonderful to remember.

THE STAR (January 20 – February 19) Remember what’s important and focus on what you need to be doing right now. Keep your spirits up by visualizing the successful pay-off for your efforts.  The hard and sometimes boring work required to make you a winner will pay off! Others are waiting to help you– all you have to do is ask.

THE MOON (February 20 – March 20) It’s time for you to take a stand and deal with what you want to have in your life instead of what you’ve been programmed to ‘believe’ you want. There is a Higher Power at work in your life; please assist it by listening to and trusting your feelings. Let this powerful process of self-discovery led you to a place of unconditional self- acceptance. Dancing is a great way for you to meditate right now, so put on some music and let yourself move to a new rhythm.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We begin September in the infamous Mercury retrograde phase. I know what you’re thinking– “wasn’t  Mercury just in retrograde motion!?” Yes, it was. Every four months or so, Mercury, the planet of communication, puts itself in reverse and goes backwards for about 3 weeks over previously traveled territory. I guess it wants to make sure it didn’t miss anything!

This particular Mercury retrograde (which will end on September 22^nd) is already proving to be a gnarly, emotional, dramatic (and trying) experience. Since a Mercury retrograde can result in mis-communications, missed connections and mistakes of all kinds, it’s important to consciously practice patience, calmness and mindfulness in order to not become a casualty of its very capricious energy. Our best bet is to remember Bobby McFerrin’s hit song, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.” Remember it and sing it often– silently and out loud, especially when we’re faced with having to deal with the ramifications of a backwards flying winged messenger.

Mercury is a ‘personal’ planet that directly affects our daily lives and we need to pay attention to its actions. The retrograde motion of a planet gives us the opportunity to rethink our plans, emotions and actions as we set about achieving our goals. If your plans have recently been hampered, all is not lost. Perhaps, the retrograde is telling you to re-direct your frustrations towards reviewing and reworking your strategy because sometimes, setbacks are the universe’s way of sending you in a direction that’ll have you creating something much better than your original idea. A retrograde Mercury period is an excellent time for introspective exploration of ourselves and the situations/circumstances we’re currently dealing with.

Please remember, whenever Mercury is retrograde, all manner of mistakes and misunderstandings can occur. If you can, hold off on buying (or leasing) any big ticket items. It’s also a good idea to triple check any and all plans you make. This is an excellent time for research and going on retreats, as those things that are usually hidden from view, show themselves more easily during a Mercury Retrograde period. Wait until Mercury goes direct before making any big decisions and enacting any major plans.

This month’s message comes in the form of a quote that will help you remember to stay balanced during these ‘interesting’ times.

THE EMPEROR (March 21 – April 20) “Impossible is just a big word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live in the world they’ve been given than to explore the power they have to change it. Impossible is not a fact. It’s an opinion. Imposible is not a declaration. It’s a dare. Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing.” Muhammad Ali

THE EMPRESS (April 21 – May 20) “Be the reason someone believes in the goodness of people.” Anonymous

THE LOVERS (May 21 – June 20) “People are always blaming circumstances for what they are. I don’t believe in circumstances. The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want and if they can’t find them they make them.” George Bernard Shaw

THE CHARIOT (June 21 – July 20) “I am not afraid of my Truth anymore, I will not omit pieces of me to make you feel comfortable. Love me for who I am or not at all. Decide if you are part of my history or part of my future…I am who I am” Anonymous

 THE SUN (July 21 – August 22) “Things turn out best for people who make the best of the way things turn out.” John Wooden

 THE HERMIT (August 23 – September 22) “Spirituality does not demand perfectionism. Shame does.” Robert Ohotto

JUSTICE (September 23 – October 22) “The greater danger lies not in setting our aim too high and falling short; but in setting our aim too low, and achieving our mark.”
Michelangelo

THE MAGICIAN (October 23 – November 21) “The intuitive mind is a sacred gift and the rational mind is a faithful servant.” Albert Einstein

 THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE (November 22 – December 21) “Each one sees what he carries in his heart.” Johann Wolfgang von Geothe

THE WORLD (December 22 – January 19) “When obstacles arise, you change your direction to reach your goal, you do not change your decision to get there.” Zig Ziglar

THE STAR (January 20 – February 19) “He dares to be a fool, and that is the first step in the direction of wisdom.” James Gibbons Huneker

THE MOON (February 20 – March 20) “This is the purpose of life– to get what you want. There are deeper things, but this is fun.” Karl Lagerfeld

Retrograde Mars has finally gone direct! When a planet goes retrograde, it’s as if three lanes of a four lane highway have been closed. All movement slows down to a trickle. The planet, Mars, directly affects our daily lives by demonstrating how we best get things done. The retrograde motion of any planet gives us the opportunity to rethink our plans, emotions and actions as we set about achieving our goals. Now that Mars is moving forward again, it’s like all of the lanes of the highway have been opened and your plans can move forward more quickly, directly and powerfully.

July is also the month of the U.S. celebration of independence. We will all benefit if we remember that the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights speak to and for all of us.

The Declaration, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights are based on the idea that all people have certain fundamental rights that governments are created to protect. Those rights include common law rights or natural rights, which come from British sources like the Magna Carta. The Founders believed that natural rights are inherent in all people by virtue of their being human and that certain of these rights are inalienable, meaning they must be preserved and protected.

Every one of us on this planet is a uniquely wonderful example of Divine Love. And every one of us has one important mission– to discover, acknowledge, refine, express and reflect that Love and encourage others to do the same. Are you doing your part in fulfilling your mission?

THE EMPEROR (March 21 – April 20) Life is often an exciting, fun adventure. It also has many difficulties to contend with. You are currently connecting with your bountiful treasury of inner guidance and inner grace. As you step out of your limited perception of the past, you’ll find that you’ve got all the powerful help you need to make a positive ‘giant leap’ forward.

THE EMPRESS (April 21 – May 20) You are a natural empath and very intuitive, as well as being very impressionable. These are all powerful attributes and you must always be sure to check in with yourself whenever you make any important decisions. You’re at the center of things and the company you keep is very important right now, so it’s important to ask yourself if and how you’re being influenced by someone else’s choices or actions. Once you’re clear that your decisions are based on what is really true for you, you’ll find that great forces will assist you.

THE LOVERS (May 21 – June 20) That sound you hear is applause because you’re center stage right now and all eyes are upon you. The success of your performance depends on how committed you are to walking your talk. Personal authenticity is your goal, so please participate in and respond to people, circumstances and events with clarity, integrity and positive energy. You’ll get a standing ovation if you do.

THE CHARIOT (June 21 – July 20) The Moon and its various phases are your emotional ‘tour guide’ at this time. Some of what you’ll be guided to see and deal with– your old unfinished emotional business, people from your past, outmoded belief systems– will have you experiencing the peaks and valleys of elation and moodiness. Regardless of how it looks or seems, this is an important soul growth opportunity. Do give yourself the permission and space to consciously evolve and learn from it. By doing so, you’ll gain a new awareness of yourself and your place in your world.

THE SUN (July 21 – August 22) You’re ready to take some giant steps forward and move to your own beat now. This is the time to show the world (and yourself) that you’ve got a firm grasp of your power by courageously stepping up and going for it. As you do so, you’ll discover that your natural charisma is once again operating at a high level and others will be showing up to help you achieve your goals.  

THE HERMIT (August 23 – September 22) Do things seem a bit intense and chaotic lately? If you answered “yes,” congratulations! That is how things should be for you right now. Your task is to ‘sit’ with these feelings and simply observe what comes up for you. Whatever questions you have or answers you think you need will come to you if you are willing to ‘live in the question.’ I encourage you to have faith and to listen. Your mantra is “Be still and know.”

JUSTICE (September 23 – October 22) There really is balance in the Universe and when you least expect it, from out of nowhere– something great and confirming will happen. This is Grace in action and you’ve earned it.  Stay grounded, be gracious and be grateful as you receive and accept your bounty.

THE MAGICIAN (October 23 – November 21) This is a very emotional and potentially enlightening time for you. It’s important that you stay grounded and pay close attention to your own inner voice.  Though you may have to take control in order to assure that events in your environment go smoothly, please make sure that you let others help you. Remember, you need to feel safe, too. Treat yourself well and others will follow suit.      

THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE (November 22 – December 21) Your message this month is a very important reminder from philosopher, Martin Buber: “I do not accept any absolute formulas for living. No preconceived code can see ahead to everything that can happen in a person’s life. As we live, we grow and our beliefs change. They must change. So I think we should live with this constant discovery. We should be open to this adventure in heightened awareness of living. We should stake our whole existence on our willingness to explore and experience.”

THE WORLD (December 22 – January 19) Emotional courage is the courage it takes to take your stand and live your life out loud, despite what anyone else has to say about it. Though playing it safe can be tempting for you, now is not the time for any kind of passivity. The balance that you seek will make itself known to you in very unexpected but rewarding ways.

THE STAR (January 20 – February 19) You are on the hunt for a priceless inner treasure. In order to make the most of your search, you’ll have to risk losing the approval of others and take ‘the road less traveled.’ Honestly, courageously examine yourself and your contribution to life. Just as importantly– examine life’s contribution to you. Both contributions must balance each other if you are to find the treasure that lies within you. Ask bold questions. Have high expectations. Accept only the best– you deserve it.

THE MOON (February 20 – March 20) In your quest to care for and nurture others, you’ve forgotten to care for and nurture the do-er– yourself. The Universe is adamant– it’s your turn now.  Doing for others without their reciprocating will no longer work. Insist in gentle but firm ways that life in all its forms acknowledges you and returns the favor. Remember to be kind, gentle and generous with yourself.

As of now, five of our ten planets– Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Pluto and Saturn– are retrograde. That means that 50% of our solar system’s energy is operating at such slow speeds that it’s appearing to move backwards. Since Mercury and Mars are ‘personal’ planets that directly affect our daily lives, those are the planets we need to pay attention to. The retrograde motion of a planet gives us the opportunity to rethink our plans, emotions and actions as we set about achieving our goals. If your plans have recently been hampered, all is not lost. Perhaps, the retrograde is telling you to re-direct your frustrations towards reviewing and reworking your strategy because sometimes, setbacks are the universe’s way of sending you in a direction that’ll have you creating something much better than your original idea.

Remember, whenever personal planets like Mercury and Mars are retrograde, all manner of mistakes and misunderstandings can occur. If you can, hold off on buying (or leasing) any big ticket items. It’s also a good idea to triple check any and all plans you make. This is an excellent time for introspection, research and going on retreats, as those things that are usually hidden from view, show themselves more easily during a Mercury or Mars Retrograde period. Wait until those planets go direct before making any big decisions and enacting any major plans.

THE EMPEROR (March 21 – April 20) A grand adventure has you in its sights! The experience is mandatory, so let your imagination be activated as you research and learn about exotic lands and the people who live in them. Be open to what you learn as you research and embark on this adventure– it’ll help you make your dreams come true.

THE EMPRESS (April 21 – May 20) What four-letter word does our species object to the most?  W-A-I-T. And that’s the word for you at this time– “wait.” You’re waiting for the circumstances you need to present themselves to you and when they do, you’ll realize that the results truly are worth the wait. While you’re waiting, tie up those loose ends and get organized.

THE LOVERS (May 21 – June 20) Your insights are very profound now. Pay attention to what they reveal as they point the way to accessing your inner truth in an empowering and enriching manner. No matter how tempted you are, you must remain self-honest about what is going on around you. As you do so, you’ll begin to witness the manifestation of your visions.

THE CHARIOT (June 21 – July 20) Although it feels natural, attachment is not a beneficial attribute for you at this time. You will benefit most from opening your mind and your hands and just letting go. As you do, you’ll catch sight of the better quality of life that is waiting for you.

THE SUN (July 21 – August 22) Like THE EMPRESS, you are dealing with the energy of the dreaded “P” word– patience. As of now– that word describes your new best friend. Remember, whatever you are to do, whatever you are to become– those seeds are being planted now. Do keep in mind– haste does often make waste! Remember to heed the lessons that come out of this time– choose wisely, plan carefully and learn from your victories as well as your mistakes.    

THE HERMIT (August 23 – September 22) Your message is very similar to the message for THE LOVERS. The two of you are very intuitive right now and I encourage you to nurture and trust this powerful and Divine gift. As you wisely allow it to guide you, you’ll be rewarded with clarity, strength of purpose and unexpected assistance.

JUSTICE (September 23 – October 22) It’s important that you come out of your shell now and go along with the Universe’s plans for you. As you continue stepping outside your comfort zone, open yourself up to new things, new people and trying new items on life’s menu. You’ll benefit a great deal from what you learn about yourself and expand your knowledge of the world at the same time.

THE MAGICIAN (October 23 – November 21) Celebrate the fact that no major life transforming planet is in your sign. However, your mandate to change is just as powerful as THE EMPEROR, THE CHARIOT, JUSTICE and THE WORLD. Since you’re all transformational signs– what affects one, often affects the others. Although very few people really like change, it is an idea whose time has come. Pay close attention, release what is no longer beneficial to you and joyfully experience accepting the very positive and liberating gifts that life is presenting to you.

THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE (November 22 – December 21) It’s important that you learn to express yourself in a new, positive, honoring way. I encourage you to do so by mingling the energies of ‘solid foundation,’ ‘structure’ and the ‘world of play.’ Dust off an old dream, make plans for a new adventure– you’ll build something meaningful, benefit a great deal from what you learn about yourself and have a good time in the process.

THE WORLD (December 22 – January 19) Your inner child is pushing you right now to stop the pretense–  that you’re entirely self-sufficient and you don’t really need as much nurturing attention as others. The truth is, you do, and it’s time to balance the scales. During this very sensitive period– allow yourself to be pampered, to be waited on hand and foot, to let others do for you. The rejuvenating effects will delight, energize and amaze you.

THE STAR (January 20 – February 19) If you’re feeling a need for more approval and emotional security lately, you’re not alone. With major planets in retrograde motion, you’re being encouraged to find solace by discovering the new inner you. This is a path that can only be traveled by you because the assurance you’re looking for can only be found within. Self-examination is your saving grace– it’ll liberate, enrich and empower you.

THE MOON (February 20 – March 20) The cozy little shell you’re used to has gotten too small and you’re being ‘encouraged’ by life to come out into the world and participate in a totally new way. This can be quite scary, but you’ll be fine. The person you’ll discover– YOU– will take you on some amazing adventures as your changing perception of what life holds for you transforms into the vibrantly dynamic reality that is your birthright.

“It’s easier to fool people than to convince them they have been fooled.” Unknown

 “There are two ways to be fooled. One is to believe what isn’t true; the other is to refuse to believe what is true.”  Søren Kierkegaard

 “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

It’s April and the first quarter of the year is over. The first three months of the year are about adjustment and getting into the rhythm of the energy of the new year. The second quarter, which we’ve just entered, is the ‘steering’ energy– the time where we steer our energies and intentions to the places and outcomes we want. This month’s message for us collectively is in the three quotes at the beginning of this column. We would all do well to heed and base our actions on them. Your personal steering directions this month come in the form of a quote, too. Memorize it and let it be a part of your internal GPS system as you propel yourself through April and the coming months.

 THE EMPEROR (March 21 – April 20) “It is better to be prepared for an opportunity that never comes than to be unprepared for an opportunity that does.” Les Brown

 THE EMPRESS (April 21 – May 20) “We do not truly serve the world if we give to others but neglect our own truth and our own needs. It’s only when our own needs are fully met that we can generously and whole-heartedly give of ourselves. It’s not selfish to look after ourselves– it’s essential!” Pearl S. Buck

THE LOVERS (May 21 – June 20) “Two people have been living in you all your life. One is the ego– garrulous, demanding, hysterical, calculating; the other is the hidden spiritual being, whose still voice of wisdom you have only rarely heard or attended to. Once you begin listening to that voice of wisdom, you will have uncovered in yourself your own wise guide.” Sogyal Rinpoche

THE CHARIOT (June 21 – July 20) “Should is an ordinary, everyday word– except when it’s used to indicate an order that may not be refused. Then should becomes a finger waiving under the nose… ‘should’ users build prison cells for themselves. They’re so focused on what they should do, that they can’t think about what they can do, what they might do in the future.” Dr. Arthur Freedman and Rose Dewolf

THE SUN (July 21 – August 22) “Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions. Watch your actions; they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.” Unknown

THE HERMIT (August 23 – September 22) “The Constitution only guarantees the pursuit of happiness– you have to catch up with it yourself. Fortunately, happiness is something that depends not on position but on disposition, and life is what you make it.” Gill Robb Wilson

JUSTICE (September 23 – October 22) “Don’t dwell on the things you can’t do; focus on the things you can do. You have powers you never dreamed of that will help you do things you never thought you could do. The only limitations to what you can do are the limitations of your own mind.” The Daily Guru

 THE MAGICIAN (October 23 – November 21) “Vision without action is a daydream. Action without vision is a nightmare.” Japanese Proverb

THE WHEEL OF FORTUNE (November 22 – December 21) “Youth is not entirely a time of life; it is also a state of mind. Nobody grows old by merely living a number of years. People grow old by deserting their ideals. You are as young as your faith, as old as your doubts; as young as your self- confidence, as old as your fear; as young as your hope, as old as your despair.” General Douglas MacArthur

THE WORLD (December 22 – January 19) “I do not accept any absolute formulas for living. No preconceived code can see ahead to everything that can happen in a person’s life. As we live, we grow and our beliefs change. They must change. It’s important to live with this constant discovery and be open to this adventure in heightened awareness of living. We must stake our whole existence on our willingness to explore and experience.” Martin Buber

THE STAR (January 20 – February 19) “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing. To keep our faces toward change and behave like free spirits in the presence of fate is strength undefeatable.” Helen Keller

THE MOON (February 20 – March 20) “Pay attention to the way that you talk to yourself. Would you talk that way to anyone else? Do you berate yourself for being stupid, sloppy, forgetful or insensitive? Do you watch yourself with interest, respect and compassion? The wise person stays alert to their self-talk and lets go of judgements that don’t serve them. Be wise.” The Daily Guru